Moving out of your rental home can feel overwhelming, but following these guidelines will help ensure a smooth transition. Here’s what you need to know about the process leading up to your move-out date.
Last 60 Days: Key-Box Installation and Showings
- Key-Box Installation: A key-box may be placed on your door to allow authorized personnel, including Property Specialists’ property managers, real estate agents, inspectors, and contractors, to access the property for showings and necessary repairs.
- Showings: We will provide reasonable notice before scheduling showings or repair work. If a real estate agent or potential applicant arrives unannounced, do not let them in. Direct them to contact our office at (703) 525-7010 to schedule an appointment.
Last 30 Days: Utilities and Move-Out Preparation
- Utilities: Request final utility readings for the last day of your lease, but do not turn off utilities. Inform our office of the final reading dates so we can transfer the service appropriately.
- Professional Cleaning: Schedule a professional cleaning, including carpet cleaning, for the day before your move-out inspection. Provide paid receipts at or before the final inspection. Failure to clean the property to our satisfaction may result in additional charges.
- Move-Out Notification: Notify our office of your expected move-out date and ensure that all tasks in the cleaning guide are completed before your final inspection. You may attend the inspection, but it is not required.
Final Days: Keys, Forwarding Address, and Security Deposit
- Return of Keys and Passes: Return all keys (including door, mailbox, storage, and window keys) and parking passes during your final walk-through. If you cannot attend, drop off these items at our office in an envelope labeled with your property address.
- Change of Address: Submit a change of address with the post office to ensure mail forwarding.
- Security Deposit: Provide a forwarding address for the return of your security deposit. Please note that the security deposit cannot be used as payment for the last month’s rent.
Detailed Cleaning Guide
Before vacating, ensure the property is thoroughly cleaned. Here’s a checklist to assist you and your professional cleaners:
- Kitchen: Defrost and clean the refrigerator, clean the dishwasher, and scrub the stove, including burner pans and exhaust fan grease traps. Mop floors, clean cabinets inside and out, and remove shelf liners.
- Windows and Blinds: Clean all windows and blinds.
- Bathrooms: Scrub sinks, tubs, and toilets. Remove mildew, clean mirrors, and wash floors.
- Floors: Vacuum and dust hardwood floors; sweep cement and garage floors.
- Light Fixtures: Dust and replace burned-out bulbs (charges apply for un-replaced bulbs).
- Doors and Woodwork: Wash off handprints, grime, and scuff marks. Remove picture hangers, but do not fill holes.
- Fireplace: Clean out ashes and wash glass enclosures.
- Smoke Detectors & Furnace Filter: Ensure smoke detectors are working and replace or clean the furnace filter.
- Carpets: Professionally clean carpets and provide a receipt. If pets were present, de-flea/de-tick and deodorizing services are required.
- Yard Maintenance: If applicable, mow the lawn, remove leaves and debris, and clean outdoor stairwells.
- Instruction Manuals: Leave appliance manuals, condo/HOA rules, and garage door openers in a visible kitchen spot.
By following these guidelines, you’ll ensure a smooth move-out process and help avoid additional charges. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Property Specialists at (703) 525-7010. We appreciate your cooperation and wish you the best in your next home!
